0:01 AM, 2nd May 2025, About 10 months ago
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Just one-in-five of England’s PRS’ properties are estimated to fall short of the forthcoming Decent Homes Standard, according to FCC Paragon.
This standard, which is embedded within the proposed Renters’ Rights Bill, aims to guarantee that all PRS homes are both safe and habitable.
The firm’s analysis of government data indicates that 21% of private rented homes in England fail to meet the anticipated criteria.
This suggests that most landlords already maintain properties that exceed these benchmarks, alleviating concerns about widespread costly refurbishments.
The managing director of FCC Paragon, Bekki Leaves, said: “Nobody can argue that the introduction of a Decent Homes Standard is anything but a positive move for the rental market and it will help ensure that all landlords provide a home fit for purpose, with functioning heating, working facilities and an absence of dangerous hazards.
“The good news is that the vast majority of landlords are already providing quality homes and won’t need to make upgrades to their properties because they already surpass this new minimum standard.”
She added: “For those who aren’t, compliance is key, and if they fail to do so, the DHS gives local councils a range of mechanisms to uphold the standard, such as strict timeframes within which to improve the standard of their properties.”
London stands out as a beacon of property quality, with only 11.6% of its rented accommodation deemed substandard.
The North West fares less favourably, with 31% of properties below par, with Yorkshire and Humber at 27%.
The East Midlands and South West also face challenges, with 26.4% and 25.7% of homes respectively not meeting the threshold.
Under the proposed standard, a ‘decent’ property must be well-maintained, equipped with modern amenities and ensure adequate warmth.
It must also be free from Category 1 hazards as defined by the Housing Health and Safety Rating System.
These hazards include issues like damp, mould, extreme temperatures, asbestos, carbon monoxide, and risks of trips or falls.
Non-compliant landlords face fines of up to £7,000, rent repayment orders and potential criminal charges.
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